TGIF: Make the Most of Your Weekend With These Killer Activities
The weekend is here! Time for fun, relaxation, and recharging the ol' batteries ahead of *gulp* Monday morning's alarm clock. Luckily enough, there’s plenty of fun stuff to keep you occupied over the weekend that doesn't necessarily involve getting blitzed. Our TGIF roundup offers you some of the best.
Movies at Cinker Pictures
Cinker Pictures in Taikoo Li provides a chicer experience than your average cinema, screening art-house and foreign films in a plush and cocktail-welcome environment. Upcoming films include classics like Pride and Prejudice, Roman Holiday, Good Will Hunting and more modern fare like Intouchables, No Country for Old Men, and The Grand Budapest Hotel. Add Cinker's WeChat account (ID: cinker-cinema-space) for a full schedule and tickets.
The 22nd Beijing Musical Festival
As one of the world’s leading music festivals, Beijing Musical Festival (BMF) is an annual highlight for capital's musos. The festival, which takes place at various venues around Beijing until Oct 28, features a rich program of music ranging from operas and symphonies to recitals and chamber concerts, as well as daily lectures and masterclasses. Read our top picks for the festival here or see a thorough breakdown of the festival and ticketing here.
Run, just run
Before the temperature drops to truly unpleasant levels, wipe the dust from your running shoes and hit the road. Whether you’re an enthusiast or beginner, Beijing has many peaceful, traffic-free places ideal for a quick workout. Click here for our favorite jogging routes in the city.
Additionally, if you like a side of fun with your workout, the Beijing Color Run takes place this Sunday at Garden Expo Park. Billed as the 'happiest 5k on the planet,' and inspired by the ancient Hindu festival of Holi, Color Run participants wear white and bravely try to make their way through the track while having brightly colored powder chucked at them. Pro tip: wear eye protection too. Registration costs RMB 208-498 and tickets can be booked here.
Sound and Fury Play Reading Festival
Back fora second year, the Sound and Fury Play Reading Festival is in town from Oct 11 to 13, presenting four great plays and solo readings from the likes of Chinese director Hu Bo (pseudonym of Hu Qian), Wang Haoran, British director Jude Christian, and playwright EV Crowe. Each play differs in style and genre, yet all reveal deep and thought-provoking perspectives on the subject matter at hand. The event takes place between Penghao Theatre and Bentu One. Click here for more information and ticketing.
Family Fair and Picnic 2019
New in town? Expat Connection's annual Family Fair and Picnic may be just what you need, providing a great place to meet Beijingers old and new, locals and expats, as well as to enjoy food and drinks from various Beijing-based vendors. There is also a whole range of family-oriented activities including pony riding, climbing, and arts and crafts to keep you and the little ones entertained all day long. The fair is free and runs 11am-6pm on Sunday, Oct 13 at the Canadian International School of Beijing. Read more about what to expect here.
Need a drink? Check out our weekly round-up of all things alcohol.
Photo: Pixabay, Douban, courtesy of event organizers